Epsom Derby: Riot Police called in on Saturday following violent clashes

Regarded by many as one of the most prestigious meetings on the racing calendar, the reputation of the Epsom Derby was tarnished on Saturday when police were called to quell a string of violent clashes between racegoers.

Officers armed with riot shields were forced to make their way through the crowds in order to break up a number of brawls taking place near the racecourse.

Throughout the day Surrey Police were required to intervene in a number of brawls, while the Queen - who regularly attends the Derby - remained in the Royal Box watching the "Blue Riband" play out.

Photographed by witnesses nearby, a small group of men were seen fighting while innocent bystanders attempted to leave the area cordoned off by the police.

During the evening of live entertainment, the group - believed to be teenagers and young men - were filmed throwing glass bottles at the crowd.

The resulting melee which followed lead to an 18-year-old man being hospitalised after he suffered head and facial injuries.

Police with riot helmets and shields were needed at the Derby, where three people were arrested.Credit:
Twitter/Twitter

A police officer also lost a tooth after a bottle struck him in the face.

The fray, which lasted until 7pm, resulted in 11 arrests, including three for drug offences and four for affray.

The men and teenagers arrested are aged between 15 and 36, while a 20-year-old man from Caterham was arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm.

Officers were required to break up a small group of men seen brawling throughout the afternoon.Credit:
Twitter

Two men were also arrested for public order offences and another was detained after being wanted by Surrey Police for an unrelated incident.

Racegoers during Derby Day of the 2016 Investec Epsom Derby Festival at Epsom Racecourse, Epsom.Credit:
PA

Following the disruption, a spokesman for Surrey Police said: "Police dealt with a number of incidents at the event and by 6pm eight arrests were made which include three for drug offences, two for assault, two public order offences and one arrest unrelated to the event."

Temporary Chief Superintendent Jerry Westerman, of Surrey Police, said: "The Investec Derby Festival weekend is a highlight on the sporting calendar and a great opportunity for people to come together from across the country and enjoy two exciting days of racing at Epsom.

"Extensive planning and security measures were put in place and I would like to thank the event organisers for their commitment to safety throughout the day.

"Surrey Police will not tolerate this kind of behaviour and anyone who can assist officers with their investigation is urged to do the right thing and come forward."